1947 Rolex Bubbleback 14k YG Two Tone Radium Dial Ref. 4777

Radium Dial

For many decades, the Rolex Bubbleback was one of the brand’s most successful and sought-after models. Introduced in the 1930s, it featured an automatic movement with a thicker, rounded caseback, which gave it its distinctive nickname. Alongside the Prince, the Bubbleback became one of Rolex’s most extensively studied timepieces, evolving through numerous case designs, metal variations, and dial configurations. At the time of its release, its unconventional appearance set it apart from other watches, and today, that same uniqueness makes it a prized collector’s item.

In the 1980s, the Bubbleback held a prestigious position among collectors, often commanding higher prices than the now-legendary Paul Newman Daytona. Many vintage Rolex enthusiasts from this era recall that the Bubbleback was one of the first Rolex models to gain widespread recognition in the collecting world. Its variety of designs and historical importance made it a favorite, and even though modern tastes have shifted toward sports models, vintage aficionados continue to appreciate the Bubbleback for its charm and horological significance.

Here’s a very nice example, from 1947, the reference 4777 in 14K yellow gold, presumably for the American market. One of its standout features is the beautifully ridged bezel with with chased hour markers—details so delicate that they would disappear with polishing. Remarkably, this bezel retains its original finish, a rarity among surviving Bubblebacks.
The dial, two tone with a champagne base with an interesting ring that is positioned along the index numerals. This ring has a grey-brownish hue and sees to have aged from silver. The numerals are applied in radium and almost fully present, they show some radium aging around them.  Very nice sword hands that have been color matched for aesthetics.
The watch is very charming and despite a brighter gold color blends beautifully with the champagne dial and especially with radium numerals.

Despite the rise of sports models, the Bubbleback remains a symbol of Rolex’s innovation and artistry. For those interested in learning more about this magical little Oyster, head over to Hodinkee to explore their article on why Bubblebacks continue to captivate collectors worldwide.